Do you enjoy observing relationships and analyzing group dynamics? Are yIf you have a passion for observing relationships and analyzing group dynamics, possess patience, good listening skills, and a desire to help others, a career as a counseling psychologist may be an excellent fit for you. Pursuing a master’s degree in counseling psychology online can be a great way to start your journey towards this rewarding profession.
Online counseling psychology master’s programs ground students with an understanding of mental health theories and principles focusing on healing and wellness. Students learn counseling techniques and strategies of prevention, intervention, and remediation to help patients develop healthy coping skills. Counseling psychologists help others to better themselves and are growing in demand. Both marriage and family therapy and rehabilitation and mental health counseling fields anticipate high growth over the next decade. School counseling is also expected to grow.
The process of selecting the right program can be daunting. However, this guide can assist you in choosing the most appropriate online counseling psychology master’s program for you. It outlines top programs, basic admission requirements, and coursework, as well as providing answers to frequently asked questions. Read on to gain insight on how to take the next step towards your new career.
Best Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs in 2024
Getting your master’s in counseling psychology online offers benefits like self-paced learning and work/life flexibility. You’ll also learn new technology skills while improving your virtual communication. Online programs also provide a unique opportunity to collaborate with other students from diverse backgrounds.
To assist in your search, we’ve highlighted this year’s top online counseling psychology master’s programs. Each offers a unique combination of affordability, flexibility, and accreditation to help you reach your career goals.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online.
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for graduate students per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Waxahachie, Texas
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program from Southwestern Assemblies of God University takes a biblical approach to prepare students to become licensed professional counselors. The curriculum is specifically designed to meet the licensure requirements for Texas, as well as to prepare students to advance to a doctoral counseling program. Because many students will have families and/or wish to continue working while in school, almost the entire program is online. However, there are two in-campus intensives during the course of the program, with each intensive lasting one week. There are also internship and practicum requirements that mean students must complete at least 600 hours of supervised, hands-on training. When applying to this program, individuals should note that there is a two-step process. The first step results in conditional admittance, followed by a formal admittance, which occurs each spring.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $545/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
2
Lynchburg, Virginia
Liberty University's CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides students with the training necessary to become licensed professional counselors. This training will come in three formats. The bulk of the academic learning will come through online coursework that lets students learn from anywhere and anytime. The second format consists of two on-campus intensives. This provides students the chance to interact with professors and classmates in a face-to-face setting, as well as take advantage of collaborative learning. Finally, students will complete a two-semester internship where they gain the required field experience for licensure. To accommodate transfer students, up to half of the required 60 credits can be taken at another institution of higher learning.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 2.5 years
- Cost: $565/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: (SACSCOC) (institutional); CACREP (programmatic)
3
San Diego, California
The California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University offers its Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling to individuals seeking the training necessary to become licensed professional clinical counselors in the state of California. To prepare these future clinical counselors, the curriculum consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The former can largely be completed online, with many online classes covering a broad range of areas, including substance abuse, professional ethics, trauma, and psychopharmacology. In addition to classroom-based instruction, students will complete hands-on learning experiences. Specifically, they must complete 700 hours of experiential instruction, with at least 280 of those hours coming under the direct supervision of an appropriate mental health professional.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $762/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: WSCUS (institutional; CACREP (programmatic)
4
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
5
Riverside, California
6
Honolulu, Hawaii
Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Spotlights
1
Columbia University
Established in 1754, Columbia University is an Ivy League member, a leading research institution, and the oldest institution of higher learning in New York state. Its four undergraduate schools and fifteen graduate schools have an enrollment of over 33,000 students.
Columbia’s online counseling psychology master’s program allows students to earn an M.Ed. degree on the school counseling track. It provides students with the coursework and training needed to obtain a school counselor’s certification in New York State. The program is registered with the New York State Education Department. Remember to research certification/licensure requirements in states where you might want to work since not every state offers reciprocal certification.
The School Counseling M.Ed. prepares students to deliver services specific to the school setting while grounding them in counseling essentials. The program requires 60 credits of coursework plus a special project. Full-time students typically complete the program within five semesters.
2
University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama was founded in 1835 as a church-related school for ladies. The state of Alabama took control of the school in 1907, and it grew into a regional university. Today, the university serves 2,000 students online with over 50 online programs.
UWA offers online counseling psychology master’s programs with several specializations. Students can choose from an M.Ed. in School Counseling, an M.S. in Adult Continuing Education – Counseling and Psychology, an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, an M.S. in Family Counseling, and an M.S. in Guidance and Counseling.
Many programs can be completed in 1-2 years and require between 33 and 48 credits. These programs do not prepare students for professional licensure, as there is no required fieldwork. The M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling requires 60 credits, including fieldwork, and most students complete the program in 2-3 years. The M.Ed. in School Counseling includes certification/licensure. Each specialization is taught by faculty who are licensed therapists and counselors in their respective fields.
3
California Baptist University
California Baptist University was founded in 1950 and currently serves over 11,000 students. In 2018, US News and World Report ranked it as one of the Best Regional Universities. The school was created by the Southern Baptist Convention and employs a 100% Christian faculty and staff.
CBU’s master’s in counseling psychology online prepares students for careers in either marriage and family therapy or professional clinical counseling. Education is grounded in psychological science with a distinctly Christian worldview. With CBU’s education and training, graduates assess and treat individuals, couples, and families with relational difficulties. The online M.S. in Counseling Psychology currently meets licensure requirements in the State of California.
The program’s core requirements include 62 credits followed by a comprehensive written examination. Students unable to come to the CBU campus for the proctored exam must arrange to take the exam at an approved site. Students must also complete fieldwork. The Psychotherapy Requirement requires 24 hours of individual psychotherapy or 50 hours of group psychotherapy with a licensed psychotherapist. CBU offers an optional 18-hour concentration to satisfy Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor requirements.
Types of Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs
Online counseling psychology master’s programs have different specialization options, and many programs also offer optional supplemental concentrations or advanced certificates. Some specializations found in online counseling psychology master’s programs include:
School Counseling (M.Ed.)
This specialization prepares students for careers as school counselors and leads to certification by state boards of education. Students learn counseling techniques, assessment, and appraisal along with strategies for prevention, intervention, and remediation in the school setting. Most programs require fieldwork.
Guidance and Counseling (M.S. or M.A.)
This specialization is similar (in some cases identical) to a School Counseling M.Ed. However, this specialization is for students who aspire to a career in school counseling but who do not have a teaching certificate.
Adult Continuing Education – Counseling and Psychology (M.S.)
This program gives students a working knowledge of the counseling field. It is not suited for those who wish to pursue a career as a licensed professional counselor right away since these programs typically do not prepare students for licensure. This program is well suited for licensed professional counselors wanting to continue their education in the field.
Counseling Psychology (M.S.)
Enrolling in a counseling psychology program provides a solid foundation in psychological science and counseling techniques, which can prepare students for rewarding careers in marriage and family therapy or professional clinical counseling. These programs typically require fieldwork and may offer opportunities for specialization.
Family Counseling (M.S. or M.A.)
This specialization prepares students for working with families and handling family-based issues. These programs help students understand family dynamics and teach them strategies for helping families make desired changes. Some programs may not prepare students for professional licensure and are best for previously licensed professionals seeking continuing education. Individuals seeking additional knowledge of family counseling or those (such as clergy) exempt from licensure requirements can also benefit from these programs.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.)
This specialization gives students a thorough knowledge of counseling techniques, theories, and principles. These programs prepare students for careers in settings such as private practices, hospitals, substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and managed behavioral care organizations. These programs often require fieldwork and offer electives for specialization. Some degrees specialize in rehabilitation counseling.
What You’ll Learn in Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs Online
Online master’s programs in counseling psychology offer a comprehensive understanding of psychological science and counseling techniques. Students learn how to promote mental health and wellness across diverse populations and situations. A School Counseling M.Ed. is designed to train students for assessment and crisis intervention in schools. On the other hand, a Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. focuses on preparing students for work in treatment settings. Specialization in family therapy or a Family Counseling M.S. provides in-depth knowledge of family dynamics and related issues. Some programs may include fieldwork, where students work alongside licensed professionals, gaining hands-on experience and preparing for professional licensure and certification.
Common Classes in Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs
Online master’s programs in counseling psychology typically offer a range of courses aimed at preparing students for a successful career in professional counseling. The specific coursework may vary based on a student’s area of specialization, and any program that requires fieldwork is likely designed to prepare students for professional certification. Regardless of the specialization, all courses in these programs are firmly grounded in the principles of psychological science and counseling techniques. Some common courses include:
Human Growth and Development
These courses are grounded in the theory and research of developmental psychology. They guide students through the lifespan of human cognitive development from childhood to adulthood, covering personality development and socialization. Some programs emphasize child development.
Psychopathology
Courses in psychopathology take students through maladaptive development. Students study causes of reactions to social, biological, and psychological stress that lead to anxiety disorders and psychoses. Many classes cover psychopathology in a multicultural, adult, or child-focused setting.
Group Counseling/Family Therapy
Course offerings in group counseling and family therapy give students a foundation in group counseling therapeutic techniques and theories. With a strong focus on interpersonal communication and family dynamics, students develop therapy skills specific to group counseling and family therapy. Students are often virtually coached by staff and given meaningful feedback.
Career Development and Counseling
This course is designed to help students meet professional certification criteria and gain competence in their counseling careers. Many online counseling psychology master’s programs connect students with mentors to guide them on their career paths. Some career development courses include fieldwork.
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology?
Earning a master’s degree in counseling psychology online can lead to various career opportunities, depending on the chosen specialization. Some programs may offer clinical fieldwork opportunities to prepare students for professional counseling licensure in family therapy or clinical settings, while others focus on preparing students for certification as school counselors. It’s important to note that most programs aim to prepare students for licensure in the state where the university is located. If you plan to work in a different state, it’s best to contact the program director to determine the requirements. Programs that do not include fieldwork still provide a strong foundation in the counseling profession, but graduates may not be immediately eligible for professional licensure. Potential careers for graduates of online counseling psychology master’s programs include:
School Counselor (M.Ed. or M.S.)
School counselors provide counseling services to children and young adults in school settings. They help facilitate optimal development, mental health, and growth in the school population. School counselors learn crisis intervention and culturally relevant and psychologically appropriate counseling techniques for the populations they serve.
Family Therapist/Marriage Counselor
Family therapists and marriage counselors are professionals who provide assistance to couples and families experiencing relational difficulties. They have specialized training in family dynamics and work with patients to develop strategies for achieving desired changes in their lives and relationships. These professionals can address a wide range of issues, and some may specialize in specific relational problems such as couples dealing with infidelity.
Substance Abuse Treatment Counselor
Substance abuse treatment counselors work with patients to end substance abuse problems. Counselors help patients identify the causes of substance abuse, become aware of any triggers, and develop awareness of negative thought and behavior patterns. Counselors hold one-on-one, couples, and family therapy sessions to get to the root of the addiction. Substance abuse treatment counselors work in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Crisis Intervention Counselor
Crisis intervention counselors help people in acute distress. They may counsel those wanting to harm themselves or those dealing with a trauma such as rape, a school shooting, or a natural disaster. They work in many settings including telephone call centers, mental health clinics, schools, and humanitarian aid groups.
Managed Behavioral Health Care
Earning a master’s degree in counseling psychology online can prepare students for careers in managed behavioral health care. Managed behavioral health care firms collaborate with employers, health insurance providers, and health care corporations to offer a range of services. Counselors trained in this field can assist with various issues, including stress management, suicide prevention, drug and alcohol abuse, and weight problems. Additionally, they can identify workplace issues and provide assistance with employee education and supervisor training.
Accreditation for Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs
When choosing the right master’s program for you, ensure that it is appropriately accredited. Accreditation tells you that the education program adheres to the accrediting body’s standards and that faculty are adequately credentialed and trained. Counseling programs must apply for and then meet specific requirements to achieve accreditation.
Several organizations offer accreditation for online counseling psychology master’s programs, each with different adherence standards. The two most regarded accreditation bodies are the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). Two other organizations offering accreditation to specialized counseling programs are the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
FAQs About Earning Your Master’s in Counseling Psychology Online
How long does it take to earn a master’s in counseling psychology online?
The time it takes to complete a master’s degree in counseling psychology online varies depending on the program and the student’s level of commitment. Full-time students can typically complete the most rigorous programs within three years, while programs with fewer required credit hours may take one to two years to complete. For part-time students, completion may take up to five to six years. Other factors that can impact the time it takes to finish the program include any in-person requirements, such as proctored exams, special projects, or fieldwork alongside licensed psychotherapists.
What are the admissions requirements for online counseling psychology master’s programs?
Each program has its own admissions requirements, but most share some basics. Admission to an online counseling psychology master’s program generally requires:
- A bachelor’s degree, often with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- An official copy of undergraduate transcripts
- An M.Ed. program may require a teaching concentration or certification
- An M.S. or M.A. program may require psychology course prerequisites
- Professional or academic recommendations
- A resume outlining any relevant professional experience
- An essay or mission statement
- An interview with the program director or faculty member
Some programs require applicants undergo background checks and fingerprinting. Most schools have admissions counselors to assist in the process.
Is the GRE required to get into an online counseling psychology master’s program?
Many online counseling psychology master’s programs do not require GRE scores. If you have strong scores, consider submitting your GRE to supplement your application, particularly if your application is sparse in other areas.
How affordable are online counseling psychology master’s degrees?
Accredited schools offering online master’s programs in counseling psychology often provide financial aid and scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition. However, it is crucial to research the cost of any program that you are considering. Larger state universities may offer online programs but may have higher tuition costs if you reside out of state. Universities specializing in online education may appear more expensive at first, but they typically include all program fees in their projected costs. You can contact the admissions or enrollment counselor for a personalized cost estimate based on your specific situation. The following cost chart covers a range of online counseling psychology master’s degrees.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tution Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capella University | 74 total (20 max transfer) | $485 | $35,890 |
| Hodges University | 60 – 7 semester sessions | $8,928.57/session | $62,500 |
| North Carolina State University | 60 | $462 (NC residents) $1,311 (non res) | $27,720 (NC res) $78,660 (non res) |
Can I earn my counseling psychology master’s completely online?
Some online counseling psychology master’s programs are entirely online and have no offline or on-campus obligations. Others have specific in-person requirements such as orientation, proctored exams, and fieldwork with licensed therapists and counselors. Research each program’s degree requirements to determine what works best for your individual needs and career goals.
What’s the difference between counseling psychology and clinical psychology?
In medicine, psychology is a relatively young field, with origins at the beginning of the twentieth century. The first practitioners were considered clinical psychologists and focused on psychopathology and the diagnosis of psychoses. In the 1950s, some psychology professionals argued for the importance of focusing on wellness and optimal development with a more holistic approach. This effort gave rise to counseling psychology, focusing on assessment, human relationships, adjustment, and vocational and career counseling.
As the field of professional psychology evolved, the two disciplines increasingly overlapped. Many now offer a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. There is still debate in the psychology community about the logic in keeping the two fields separate. Currently, the setting of care draws the main distinction. Clinical psychologists may work under a psychiatrist’s supervision in a medical environment and deal with patients having more severe pathology or mental illness. Counseling psychologists tend to work with patients with less severe mental issues looking to optimize their well-being.
Does clinical psychology sound like a better choice for you? Check out our guide to online clinical psychology master’s programs .
